Microelectrode array sensor for detection of heavy metals in aqueous solutions

Abstract

In a first aspect, the present invention is directed to a microelectrode array for detecting heavy metals in an aqueous solution. The microelectrode array can comprise a layer of a doped carbon film and a patterning layer arranged on the doped carbon film for defining multiple microelectrodes in the doped carbon film to form the microelectrode array. The size, and shape, and arrangement of each of the multiple microelectrodes can be defined by the size, and shape, and arrangement of each of the openings in the patterning layer which expose the underlying doped carbon film. Furthermore, the ratio of the maximal width of a microelectrode relative to the shortest distance between the neighboring microelectrodes (center to center) in the microelectrode array is between about 1:1.2 and about 1:6. The present invention is also directed to an apparatus using the microelectrode array and methods of manufacturing the same.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority of SG application No. 201004224-0, filed Jun. 16, 2010, the content of it being hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention is directed to the field of electrochemistry. In particular the present invention is directed to the field of electrochemical detection of heavy metals.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Considerable attention has been given to the search for new solid electrode materials for use as sensor materials for the determination of heavy metals (such as Cu, Cd, Pb, Zn) in waste water and biofluid systems. The search concentrated on solid electrode materials with wide potential window, fast response and high activity for electroanalysis applications because traditional hanging mercury drop electrodes, noble metal electrodes, graphite and glassy carbon electrodes can either cause a serious environmental impact o...

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Problems solved by technology

The search concentrated on solid electrode materials with wide potential window, fast response and high activity for electroanalysis applications because traditional hanging mercury drop electrodes, noble metal electrodes, graphite and glassy carbon electrodes can either cause a serious environmental impact or represent a limited sensitivity in terms of the surface oxidation and reduction of the electrodes.

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